Accelerate 2023/2024 | $532,269
Region 7: Counties of Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William
George Mason University will advance Northern Virginia as a world-renowned center of excellence for innovative emerging technologies by holding a competition and showcase of the top tech companies in Virginia, benefiting the region and promoting economic growth. This project will create 100 new jobs, engage 80-120 entrepreneurs and raise $50 million in total capital.
Tech Talent Retention | $307,800
Region 9: Counties of Albemarle, Culpeper, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Nelson, and Orange, and the city of Charlottesville
The Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development, in concert with various regional partners, will retain college graduates to launch their careers within the Central Virginia region by creating a talent pipeline for higher-paying jobs in Region 9’s targeted technology fields. Student ambassadors will raise awareness about local businesses and educate stakeholders about what students are looking for in choosing their careers. This project will create or retain 55 jobs, in addition to serving 100 businesses.
Carver Food Business Incubator | $199,727
Region 9: Counties of Culpeper, Fauquier, Orange and Rappahannock, and the town of Culpeper
Culpeper County will complete a community kitchen by providing crucial specialized equipment, addressing the needs of businesses by adding value to local produce and preparing products for the interstate market. This project will create 93 new jobs, serve 68 businesses, release 35 new products to market and increase sales by 15%.
CS/root | $175,000
Region 2: Counties of Botetourt and Pulaski, and the city of Roanoke
The Virginia Tech Department of Computer Science, in partnership with the Virginia Tech Office of Research and Innovation, the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center and the Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council (RBTC), will create a platform for computer science focused on entrepreneurship in the New River and Roanoke valleys. This project will stimulate startups in the pre-launch phase and intends to create four new businesses and 24 jobs, as well as engage 200 entrepreneurs and 40 mentors.